Hidden Costs of Custom Home Building in Franklin, WI – 2024 Update

The True Cost of Custom Home Design in Franklin, WI

When we think of “custom home design,” we picture freedom—freedom to choose the layout, finishes, and unique details that make a house feel like home. But what happens when those choices come with unexpected costs? In Franklin, WI, the custom home design process can bring extra expenses that go beyond the original quote.

1. Site Preparation and Land Costs

You found the perfect lot in Franklin, but is it ready for construction? Hidden costs often start with land preparation. From grading and tree removal to soil tests, getting your plot of land build-ready may require more work than expected. The condition of the land might dictate added costs like:

• Tree clearing for large wooded areas
• Grading and leveling the land to suit the home’s design
• Soil tests. For more detailed information on soil testing and its importance in home construction, visit USDA’s Soil Testing Guide. to ensure it’s suitable for construction

In 2024, site preparation has become even more crucial due to recent environmental changes. Franklin experienced a few wetter-than-normal seasons, making soil stability a top priority for builders. These costs are usually separate from the actual construction costs, so it’s smart to factor them in early on.

2. Utility Connections

Once the land is ready, you’ll need to bring in utilities like water, electricity, and gas. Depending on your lot’s location, this could mean a significant added cost. To understand more about utility connection costs and how they vary, check out Energy.gov’s Guide to Utility Costs. If the lot is in a more remote area of Franklin, the distance to utility connections could mean additional fees. Custom home builders, like Redleaf Homes, do everything they can to be transparent, but it’s always a good idea to ask upfront about utility connection costs.

3. Permits and Inspections

For an overview of Wisconsin building permits, you can visit Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. Every custom home build in Franklin needs permits—and permits cost money. The exact price will vary depending on the complexity of your home design and local regulations. Inspections are also essential to keep your build up to code, but they can add to the overall price tag.

In 2024, there are a few new building codes related to energy efficiency in Wisconsin, which can make permit processes slightly more complex and costly. It’s all about ensuring your new custom home is as sustainable as possible, but it’s definitely a cost worth budgeting for.

4. Customization Gone Wild

The fun part of building a custom home is picking out all the details—those special touches that make it yours. But with great customization comes great responsibility… to your budget! High-end appliances, intricate cabinetry, or designer tiles can cause your original budget to skyrocket. It’s easy to get carried away.

A helpful tip? Work with Redleaf Homes to set an allowance for each category, like countertops or light fixtures, and stick to it. It’s easy to upgrade here and there, but these costs add up quickly. Many homeowners end up shocked by the difference between their initial estimate and the actual costs. For more information on managing home building costs, check out this helpful guide from HGTV. because they weren’t prepared for the upgrades they’d inevitably want.

5. The Cost of Time Delays

Time is money—especially in construction. Weather, permit approval wait times, or material shortages (which were common in 2024 due to ongoing supply chain hiccups). For more information on how supply chain disruptions have impacted the construction industry, visit Forbes’ analysis on supply chain issues in construction. can delay your project, leading to increased costs. Labor and material prices can fluctuate, and those unexpected delays mean your overall budget might take a hit.

Working with a custom home builder like Redleaf Homes can help reduce surprises, as they understand how to navigate challenges, especially in the Franklin area. But it’s always smart to budget for potential time delays.

6. Landscaping and Outdoor Living Spaces

The vision of a beautiful custom home usually includes a lush, green lawn, maybe even a garden, or a deck for summer cookouts. But, surprisingly, these outdoor aspects are often not included in the initial construction quote. Landscaping and creating the perfect outdoor living space require separate budgeting.

If you’re planning a cozy outdoor space for entertaining in Franklin’s beautiful summers, you’ll need to consider:

• Driveways and walkways
• Fencing for privacy
• Deck or patio construction

In 2024, with outdoor living trends on the rise, many homeowners are prioritizing their outdoor space. This means higher demand and, potentially, higher costs for landscaping services. It’s worth considering how much of the budget you’d like to dedicate to creating a functional and beautiful backyard.

7. Design Changes Mid-Build

Sometimes, once construction is underway, you might decide you want something different—maybe a larger window to take advantage of that Franklin sunset view, or a different layout for the kitchen. While flexibility is one of the perks of building custom, design changes can lead to substantial extra costs. Changing your mind mid-build can result in wasted materials, added labor, and delayed timelines.

In 2024, there are so many trends and new products on the market that it’s easy to see something and want to incorporate it into your home. The key here is to plan thoroughly with Redleaf Homes from the start, minimizing costly changes down the line.

Hidden Costs, But Worth It: Creating Your Dream Home

Hidden costs can feel daunting, but knowing about them helps you stay prepared and avoid unwanted surprises. The key to managing these costs effectively is communication. Home builders in Franklin, WI, like Redleaf Homes, emphasize transparency throughout the process—so ask questions, understand where your money is going, and be proactive in managing your budget.

How to Stay Ahead of Hidden Costs

To recap, here are a few quick tips for managing those hidden costs:

• Research your lot. For expert tips on evaluating land for construction, visit Better Homes & Gardens’ Guide to Buying Land.: Understand the land preparation and utility connection costs.
• Stick to your budget: Set allowances for finishes and avoid excessive upgrades.
• Prepare for delays: Budget extra for potential time delays and price fluctuations.
• Plan landscaping ahead: Don’t forget to budget for outdoor spaces.

The good news? Being well-prepared helps you stay on track. The hidden costs of custom home building are real, but with a solid plan and a great team like Redleaf Homes, you can navigate these expenses and build the home you’ve always dreamed of.

Ready to Build Your Dream Home?

Building a custom home in Franklin, WI, is a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and rewards. At Redleaf Homes, we’re committed to guiding you every step of the way—making the process as smooth, transparent, and enjoyable as possible. Ready to get started? Let’s chat about your dream home today!